Devices and methods are disclosed for trusted listening. In some examples, an apparatus can include an audio receiving device having a microphone configured to capture sound and produce an audio signal, a processing unit configured to add a trusted signature to the audio signal, and an output configured to provide the audio signal. Further, a method of trusted listening can receive a first audio signal representing a real-time sound, generate a trusted signature in an audible format, and produce a second audio signal including the trusted signature.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An apparatus comprising: an audio receiving device including: a microphone configured to capture sound and produce an audio signal; a processing unit configured to: generate a trusted signature by applying an invertible transfer function to the audio signal; generate a white noise signal; monitor for major frequency constituents of the audio signal; generate a modified audio signal by adding (1) the white noise signal and (2) the trusted signature to the audio signal by encoding the trusted signature into the major frequency constituents; and an output configured to provide the modified audio signal at the output.
This invention relates to audio signal processing for secure transmission or authentication. The apparatus captures sound using a microphone, producing an audio signal. A processing unit then generates a trusted signature by applying an invertible transfer function to the audio signal, ensuring the signature can be later verified. The system also generates a white noise signal to obscure the original audio content and monitors the audio signal to identify its major frequency constituents. The trusted signature is encoded into these major frequency components, and the white noise signal is added to the original audio signal. The result is a modified audio signal that combines the original content, the white noise, and the embedded signature. This modified signal is then output for transmission or storage. The white noise obscures the original signal, while the trusted signature allows for later verification of the audio's integrity or authenticity. The invertible transfer function ensures the signature can be extracted and verified without altering the original audio content. This approach enhances security by making unauthorized tampering detectable while preserving the audio's usability.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the processing unit includes a noise generator configured to generate the white noise signal.
The invention relates to an apparatus for generating and processing white noise signals, addressing the need for reliable and customizable noise generation in electronic systems. The apparatus includes a processing unit that generates a white noise signal, which is a random signal with a flat spectral density, useful for applications such as audio masking, signal testing, and privacy enhancement. The processing unit further includes a dedicated noise generator specifically configured to produce the white noise signal, ensuring consistent and high-quality output. The noise generator may employ digital or analog techniques to create the random signal, which can then be filtered, amplified, or otherwise processed to meet specific application requirements. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as filters or amplifiers, to refine the noise signal before output. This design allows for precise control over the noise characteristics, making it suitable for various industrial, medical, and consumer electronics applications where controlled noise generation is essential. The inclusion of an integrated noise generator simplifies system design by consolidating noise generation within the processing unit, reducing external dependencies and improving reliability.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising the noise generator configured to generate the white noise signal based on a known white noise function.
This invention relates to noise generation systems, specifically apparatuses that produce white noise signals for applications such as masking unwanted sounds or improving privacy. The problem addressed is the need for a reliable and consistent white noise signal that can be generated without requiring complex or expensive hardware. The apparatus includes a noise generator that produces a white noise signal, which is characterized by having equal power across all frequencies within a specified range. The noise generator is configured to generate this signal based on a known white noise function, ensuring that the output is mathematically predictable and reproducible. This function may be implemented using digital signal processing techniques, such as algorithms that generate pseudorandom sequences or filter white noise through a shaping filter to achieve the desired spectral characteristics. The apparatus may also include a signal processor that conditions the white noise signal, such as by adjusting its amplitude, frequency range, or spectral shape to meet specific application requirements. Additionally, the system may incorporate an output interface, such as an amplifier or speaker, to deliver the processed noise signal to a user or environment. The use of a known white noise function ensures that the generated signal is consistent and free from artifacts, making it suitable for applications where reliability is critical.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising the processing unit configured to: monitor for major frequency constituents of the audio signal by performing wavelet analysis on the audio signal; and encoding the trusted signature into the major frequency constituents by applying a modulated amplitude to one or more bins identified by the wavelet analysis.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically a method for embedding a trusted signature into an audio signal using wavelet analysis. The system addresses the challenge of securely embedding data into audio signals without perceptible distortion. The apparatus includes a processing unit that analyzes the audio signal to identify major frequency constituents through wavelet analysis, which decomposes the signal into time-frequency components. The processing unit then encodes a trusted signature into these major frequency constituents by modulating the amplitude of one or more frequency bins identified by the wavelet analysis. This ensures the signature is embedded in the most prominent frequency components, making it robust against noise and compression while minimizing audible artifacts. The system may also include an input interface for receiving the audio signal and an output interface for transmitting the modified signal. The wavelet analysis allows for precise frequency localization, enabling the signature to be embedded in a way that resists tampering and maintains signal integrity. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring secure audio authentication, such as digital rights management, forensic analysis, and anti-piracy measures.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the output includes a speaker to provide the audio signal as a sound output.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing and outputting audio signals, addressing the need for improved audio delivery in electronic devices. The apparatus includes a signal processor configured to receive an input audio signal and generate an output audio signal based on the input. The signal processor modifies the audio signal to enhance certain characteristics, such as clarity or volume, before transmission. The apparatus also includes an output interface that transmits the processed audio signal to an external device, such as a display or speaker system, for further processing or playback. Additionally, the apparatus may include a speaker integrated into the output interface to directly produce the audio signal as a sound output, eliminating the need for external audio devices. This design ensures high-quality audio reproduction while maintaining flexibility in how the signal is delivered. The apparatus may also include a user interface for adjusting audio settings, such as volume or equalization, to customize the listening experience. The system is particularly useful in devices where compact, self-contained audio solutions are required, such as portable electronics or smart home systems.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 further comprising another audio receiving device including a decoder configured to decode the audio signal and determine authenticity thereof based on the trusted signature.
This invention relates to audio authentication systems, specifically apparatuses for verifying the authenticity of audio signals. The problem addressed is ensuring that audio signals, such as those transmitted or recorded, have not been tampered with or altered, which is critical in applications like secure communications, digital forensics, and content verification. The apparatus includes at least one audio receiving device equipped with a decoder. The decoder is configured to decode an audio signal and determine its authenticity by verifying a trusted signature embedded within the signal. The trusted signature serves as a cryptographic marker that confirms the integrity and origin of the audio data. This verification process helps detect unauthorized modifications or tampering, ensuring the reliability of the audio content. Additionally, the apparatus includes another audio receiving device, which also contains a decoder with similar functionality. This redundancy enhances the system's robustness by allowing multiple devices to independently verify the same audio signal, reducing the risk of false positives or system failures. The use of trusted signatures provides a secure and tamper-evident mechanism for audio authentication, making it suitable for high-security applications where data integrity is paramount.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the audio receiving device is configured to be in-line with a live speaker's microphone and audio amplifier.
This invention relates to audio signal processing systems designed to enhance live audio performance. The problem addressed is the need for real-time audio monitoring and processing in live sound environments, where delays or interference can degrade performance quality. The apparatus includes an audio receiving device that captures audio signals from a live speaker's microphone and processes them before transmission to an audio amplifier. The audio receiving device is positioned in-line between the microphone and amplifier, ensuring seamless integration into existing audio setups without requiring additional equipment. This configuration allows for real-time adjustments, such as noise reduction, equalization, or feedback suppression, directly at the source. The system ensures minimal latency and maintains signal integrity, improving the overall audio experience for both the performer and the audience. The apparatus may also include additional features like wireless connectivity or digital signal processing capabilities to further enhance functionality. By placing the audio receiving device in-line, the invention provides a compact, efficient solution for live sound applications, addressing common issues like feedback and signal degradation.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising the audio receiving device is a separate device not in-line with a live speaker's microphone and audio amplifier, and includes an output amplifier separate from the live speaker's audio amplifier.
This invention relates to audio systems for live performances, addressing the challenge of capturing and processing audio signals from a live speaker without interfering with the primary audio amplification system. The apparatus includes an audio receiving device that operates independently of the live speaker's microphone and audio amplifier. This device is not in-line with the primary audio path, meaning it does not disrupt or alter the original audio signal sent to the live speaker's amplifier. The audio receiving device captures the live speaker's audio and processes it through a separate output amplifier, distinct from the live speaker's amplifier. This design ensures that the primary audio signal remains unaltered while enabling additional processing or distribution of the captured audio. The separate amplifier allows for independent control of the output signal, such as adjusting volume, applying effects, or routing the audio to different destinations without affecting the live speaker's main audio system. This setup is useful in scenarios where secondary audio processing is needed, such as recording, broadcasting, or monitoring, without compromising the integrity of the live performance audio. The invention ensures that the primary audio path remains unaffected while providing flexibility for additional audio applications.
9. A method comprising: receiving, at an input of a first device, a first audio signal representing a real-time sound; processing, via a circuit of the first device, the first audio signal to: generate a trusted signature by applying an invertible transfer function to the first audio signal; monitor for major frequency constituents of the first audio signal; generating, via a noise generator circuit of the first device, a first white noise signal; producing, at the first device, a second audio signal by combining the first audio signal with the first white noise signal and encoding the trusted signature into the major frequency constituents; and providing, at an output of the first device, the second audio signal.
This invention relates to audio signal processing for secure transmission and verification. The method involves a first device that receives a real-time audio signal and processes it to generate a secure, tamper-resistant output. The device applies an invertible transfer function to the input audio signal to create a trusted signature, which can later be used to verify the integrity of the signal. The device also monitors the input signal to identify major frequency constituents, which are used to encode the trusted signature. Additionally, the device generates a white noise signal and combines it with the original audio signal. The white noise enhances security by obscuring the original signal while allowing the trusted signature to remain detectable. The processed audio signal, now containing the encoded signature and noise, is output from the device. This approach ensures that the audio signal can be transmitted securely and verified upon receipt, preventing unauthorized modifications. The use of white noise and frequency-based encoding provides a robust method for maintaining signal integrity in real-time applications.
10. The method of claim 9 further comprising generating the trusted signature by converting, via the invertible transfer function, the first audio signal to a signal that looks like a second white noise signal.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically methods for generating trusted signatures from audio signals to enhance security or authentication. The problem addressed is the need for robust, tamper-resistant signatures derived from audio data that can be verified while preserving the original signal's integrity. The method involves processing a first audio signal to generate a trusted signature. This is done by applying an invertible transfer function to the first audio signal, transforming it into a signal that resembles a second white noise signal. The invertible transfer function ensures that the original audio signal can be reconstructed from the transformed signal, while the white noise-like output provides a secure, randomized signature. This transformation helps prevent unauthorized modifications or forgeries, as any tampering would disrupt the white noise characteristics, making detection easier. The process may also include generating a second audio signal by applying the same invertible transfer function to the first audio signal, ensuring consistency between the original and transformed signals. The trusted signature can then be used for authentication, verification, or secure transmission of the audio data. The method ensures that the signature is both secure and reversible, addressing challenges in audio-based security systems where maintaining signal integrity is critical.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the first white noise signal generated based on a known white noise function.
A method for generating and processing white noise signals is disclosed, addressing the need for controlled and reproducible noise generation in applications such as signal processing, testing, or simulation. The method involves producing a first white noise signal derived from a known mathematical white noise function, ensuring consistency and predictability in the generated noise. This approach allows for precise control over noise characteristics, which is critical in environments where reproducibility and reliability are essential. The method may also include additional steps such as filtering, amplifying, or modulating the white noise signal to meet specific application requirements. By using a known white noise function, the method ensures that the generated noise adheres to predefined statistical properties, such as a flat power spectral density, making it suitable for applications in audio processing, communication systems, or experimental setups where controlled noise conditions are necessary. The technique may further integrate with other signal processing steps to enhance noise generation or analysis, providing a robust solution for applications requiring high-fidelity noise signals.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising: monitoring for major frequency constituents of the first audio signal by performing wavelet analysis on the first audio signal; and encoding the trusted signature into the major frequency constituents by applying a modulated amplitude to one or more bins identified by the wavelet analysis.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically methods for embedding a trusted signature into an audio signal to ensure authenticity and integrity. The problem addressed is the need for robust, imperceptible watermarking of audio signals to detect tampering or verify origin without degrading audio quality. The method involves analyzing an audio signal to identify its major frequency constituents using wavelet analysis, which decomposes the signal into different frequency bands. The wavelet analysis helps isolate dominant frequency components that are least perceptible to human hearing when modified. A trusted signature, such as a digital watermark, is then encoded into these major frequency constituents by applying a modulated amplitude to specific frequency bins identified by the wavelet analysis. This ensures the watermark is embedded in a way that minimizes audible distortion while remaining detectable for verification purposes. The technique leverages the properties of wavelet transforms to maintain robustness against common audio processing operations like compression, filtering, or noise addition. The embedded signature can later be extracted to verify the audio signal's authenticity or detect unauthorized modifications. This approach improves upon traditional watermarking methods by focusing on perceptually significant frequency components, enhancing both robustness and imperceptibility.
13. The method of claim 9 further comprising providing the second audio signal at an audio output.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically methods for managing and outputting audio signals in a system where multiple audio sources are present. The problem addressed is the need to selectively process and output audio signals from different sources while maintaining synchronization and clarity. The method involves receiving a first audio signal from a primary source and a second audio signal from a secondary source. The first audio signal is processed to generate a modified version, which is then combined with the second audio signal. This combination is done in a way that preserves the integrity of both signals, ensuring that the second audio signal remains distinct and audible. The combined signal is then provided to an audio output device, such as a speaker or headphones, allowing the user to hear both the modified primary signal and the secondary signal simultaneously. The processing of the first audio signal may include adjusting its volume, applying effects, or filtering certain frequencies to enhance clarity or reduce interference with the second audio signal. The method ensures that the second audio signal is not overwhelmed by the primary signal, maintaining its audibility. This is particularly useful in applications where multiple audio sources must be managed, such as in communication systems, multimedia playback, or assistive listening devices. The invention improves user experience by ensuring that important audio cues from the secondary source are not lost in the primary signal.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising receiving the second audio signal at a second device including a decoder configured to decode the second audio signal and determine authenticity thereof based on the trusted signature.
This invention relates to audio signal processing and authentication, specifically for verifying the authenticity of audio signals transmitted between devices. The problem addressed is ensuring that audio signals received by a device can be verified as authentic and unaltered, preventing tampering or unauthorized modifications during transmission. The method involves generating a first audio signal at a first device, which is then encoded with a trusted signature to create a second audio signal. The trusted signature is embedded in the second audio signal in a way that allows for later verification. The second audio signal is then transmitted to a second device, which includes a decoder. The decoder is configured to decode the second audio signal and extract the trusted signature. The authenticity of the second audio signal is determined by verifying the trusted signature against a trusted reference or algorithm. This ensures that the audio signal has not been altered during transmission. The trusted signature may be generated using cryptographic techniques, such as digital signatures or hash functions, to provide a secure and tamper-evident verification mechanism. The decoder in the second device is designed to perform the necessary decryption or verification steps to confirm the integrity and authenticity of the received audio signal. This method is particularly useful in applications where secure audio transmission is critical, such as in communication systems, digital rights management, or forensic audio analysis.
15. The method of claim 9 further comprising performing the processing of the first audio signal and outputting of the second audio signal with an in-line device between a live speaker's microphone and an audio amplifier.
This invention relates to audio signal processing systems, specifically for enhancing audio quality in real-time communication or live performance scenarios. The problem addressed is the need to process audio signals in-line between a microphone and an audio amplifier without disrupting the signal path, ensuring low-latency and high-fidelity audio output. The method involves capturing a first audio signal from a live speaker's microphone and processing it to generate a second audio signal with improved audio characteristics. The processing may include noise reduction, equalization, dynamic range compression, or other audio enhancement techniques. The processed second audio signal is then output to an audio amplifier, which drives speakers or other audio output devices. A key aspect is the use of an in-line device placed directly between the microphone and the amplifier. This device performs the audio processing in real-time, ensuring minimal latency and maintaining the integrity of the audio signal. The in-line configuration allows for seamless integration into existing audio setups without requiring additional hardware or complex routing. The device may be a dedicated hardware unit or a software-based solution running on a processing unit with appropriate audio interfaces. The invention is particularly useful in live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, or telecommunication applications where real-time audio processing is critical. By processing the audio signal in-line, the system ensures that the enhanced audio is delivered to the amplifier without delays or signal degradation.
16. A system comprising: a first device including: an input configured to receive a first signal representative of a first audio signal; a white noise generator circuit configured to generate a first white noise signal; a processing circuit processor configured to: generate add a trusted signature by applying an invertible transfer function to the first audio signal to produce a second audio signal; generate a second audio signal by combining the first white noise signal and the trusted signature with the first audio signal; and an output configured to provide the second audio signal as an output signal of the first device.
This system relates to audio signal processing, specifically for embedding a trusted signature into an audio signal while preserving its original content. The problem addressed is ensuring the authenticity and integrity of audio signals by embedding a detectable signature that can be later verified without altering the perceptual quality of the audio. The system includes a first device with an input that receives an audio signal. A white noise generator circuit produces a white noise signal, which is used to enhance the security of the embedded signature. A processing circuit applies an invertible transfer function to the original audio signal to generate a trusted signature. This signature is then combined with the original audio signal and the white noise signal to produce a modified audio signal. The modified signal is output from the device, containing the original audio content along with the embedded signature. The invertible transfer function ensures that the signature can be extracted and verified later, while the addition of white noise makes the signature resistant to tampering. The system allows for secure authentication of audio signals in applications such as digital rights management, forensic analysis, or secure communication. The design ensures that the embedded signature does not degrade the audio quality, maintaining the original signal's integrity while providing a verifiable marker of authenticity.
17. The system of claim 16 further comprising the processing circuit configured to monitor the first audio signal for one or more major frequency constituents and encode the trusted signature into one or more detected major frequencies to produce the second audio signal.
This invention relates to audio signal processing systems designed to embed trusted signatures into audio signals for authentication or verification purposes. The system addresses the challenge of securely embedding digital signatures into audio data without significantly altering its perceptual quality or detectability. The system includes a processing circuit that receives a first audio signal and generates a second audio signal with an embedded trusted signature. The processing circuit analyzes the first audio signal to identify one or more major frequency constituents, which are dominant or prominent frequencies in the audio spectrum. The trusted signature, which may be a digital watermark or cryptographic signature, is then encoded into these detected major frequencies. This encoding process ensures that the signature is robustly embedded while minimizing audible distortion. The system may also include additional components for generating the trusted signature, such as a cryptographic module, and for transmitting or storing the second audio signal. The invention improves upon existing audio watermarking techniques by leveraging major frequency constituents, which are less susceptible to noise and compression artifacts, thereby enhancing the reliability of signature extraction during verification. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring secure audio authentication, such as digital rights management, forensic analysis, or content verification.
18. The system of claim 17 further comprising: the processing circuit configured to generate the trusted signature by converting, via the invertible transfer function, the first audio signal to a signal that looks like add a second white noise signal; and the white noise generator circuit configured to generate the first white noise signal based on a known white noise function.
This invention relates to a system for generating a trusted signature for audio signals, addressing the need for secure and verifiable audio data processing. The system includes a processing circuit and a white noise generator circuit. The processing circuit is configured to generate a trusted signature by converting a first audio signal into a modified signal that resembles a second white noise signal using an invertible transfer function. The white noise generator circuit produces the first white noise signal based on a known white noise function. The system ensures that the trusted signature can be securely derived and verified, maintaining the integrity of the audio data. The invertible transfer function allows for reversible transformation, enabling reconstruction of the original audio signal from the modified signal. The known white noise function ensures consistency and predictability in the generation of the white noise signal, which is used to obscure or transform the audio signal in a controlled manner. This approach enhances security and authenticity in audio signal processing applications, such as digital rights management, forensic analysis, or secure communication. The system may be part of a larger audio processing framework, where the trusted signature is used to verify the authenticity or integrity of the audio data.
19. The system of claim 18 further comprising the processing circuit configured to: monitor for the one or more major frequency constituents of the first audio signal by performing wavelet analysis on the first audio signal; and encode the trusted signature into the one or more detected major frequencies by applying a modulated amplitude to one or more bins identified by the wavelet analysis.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically a system for embedding a trusted signature into an audio signal using wavelet analysis. The system addresses the challenge of securely embedding data into audio signals without causing perceptible distortion. The system includes a processing circuit that monitors for major frequency constituents in a first audio signal by performing wavelet analysis. Wavelet analysis decomposes the audio signal into different frequency components, allowing identification of dominant frequencies. The processing circuit then encodes a trusted signature into these detected major frequencies by applying a modulated amplitude to specific frequency bins identified during the wavelet analysis. This modulation ensures the signature is embedded in a way that is resistant to tampering and difficult to detect without specialized analysis. The system may also include a second audio signal for comparison or verification purposes, where the processing circuit analyzes the second audio signal to detect the presence of the trusted signature. The wavelet-based approach provides robustness against noise and signal processing operations, making the embedded signature more reliable for authentication or forensic purposes. The invention improves upon traditional methods by leveraging wavelet analysis for more precise frequency domain manipulation, enhancing both security and imperceptibility of the embedded data.
20. The system of claim 16 further comprising: a second device including: an input configured to receive the second audio signal; a decoder circuit configured to process the second audio signal and detect the trusted signature; an output configured to provide an indication of whether the trusted signature was detected; and a calibration component configured to calibrate reception of the trusted signature at the second device.
This invention relates to audio-based authentication systems, specifically for verifying the integrity and authenticity of audio signals using trusted signatures. The system addresses the problem of ensuring that audio signals, such as those transmitted in communication systems, have not been tampered with or altered, which is critical for secure applications like digital rights management, authentication, and fraud prevention. The system includes a first device that generates a first audio signal and embeds a trusted signature into it. The trusted signature is a unique identifier or marker that can be detected by authorized devices to verify the signal's authenticity. The first device may also include a calibration component to adjust the embedding process for optimal detection. A second device receives a second audio signal, which may be the same as or derived from the first audio signal. The second device includes an input to receive the second audio signal and a decoder circuit to process the signal and detect the trusted signature. If the signature is detected, the device provides an indication, such as a visual or audible alert, confirming the signal's authenticity. The second device also includes a calibration component to fine-tune its reception of the trusted signature, ensuring reliable detection even under varying conditions like noise or signal degradation. This system enables secure audio transmission by embedding and verifying trusted signatures, preventing unauthorized modifications and ensuring the integrity of the audio content.
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March 20, 2020
April 5, 2022
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